Palm Desert Real Estate Blog

Market Report for The Trilogy Golf Club in La Quinta

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 21:01:31 -0600

The Trilogy in La Quinta is a fabulous active lifestyle community for seniors! Here is the current market report and give us a call if you are looking to buy or sell your Trilogy home!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Looking for a home in the La Quinta golf course community of The Trilogy Golf Club? Below is the current real estate market report for homes located in this community:

Current Available Listings: 60

Least Expensive Home on the Market: $267,900 - 2 bdrm/2 bth, 1,386 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Home on the Market: $937,499 - 3 bdrm/3.5 bth, 2,769 sq. ft.

Current Homes in Escrow/Under Contract: 13

Most Recent Sales (past 180 days): 33

Least Expensive Sold: $224,000 - 2 bdrm/2 bth, 1,693 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Sold: $615,000 - 3 bdrm/3.5 bth, 2,482 sq. ft.

Whether you are interested in selling your home or buying a home in The Trilogy, contact us anytime to assist you in meeting your real estate needs!

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

To view all many of the desert developments, including the private golf clubs visit our website at www.Resort-Home.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams!

Market Report for the PGA West Greg Norman in La Quinta

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 21:00:01 -0600

Looking for a home in PGA West? How about the beautiful Greg Norman Course? Here is the market report for this golf course community:

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Looking for a home in the La Quinta golf course community of PGA West Greg Norman Course? Below is the current real estate market report for homes located in this community:

Current Available Listings: 15

Least Expensive Home on the Market: $849,900- 3 bdrm/3.5 bth, 3,741 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Home on the Market: $2,095,000 - 4 bdrm/4.5 bth, 4,375 sq. ft.

Current Homes in Escrow/Under Contract: 1

Most Recent Sales (past 180 days): 5

Least Expensive Sold: $760,000 - 3 bdrm/3.5 bth, 3,040 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Sold: $1,495,000 - 4 bdrm/4.5 bth, 4,716 sq. ft.

Whether you are interested in selling your home or buying a home in PGA West, contact us anytime to assist you in meeting your real estate needs!

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

La Quinta Market Report for Rancho La Quinta Country Club

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:39:00 -0600

Looking to buy in La Quinta? The Rancho La Quinta Country Club is one of the finest in the desert!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Below is the current market report for the homes in the golf course community of Rancho La Quinta Country Club:

Current Available Listings: 101

Least Expensive Home on the Market: $380,000 - 3 bdrm/1.75 bth, 2,038 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Home on the Market: $1,995,000 -4 bdrm/4.5 bth, 4,243 sq. ft.

Current Homes in Escrow/Under Contract: 7

Most Recent Sales (past 180 days): 31

Least Expensive Sold: $450,000 - 3 bdrm/2 bth, 2,038 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Sold: $1,650,000 - 4 bdrm/4.5 bth, 4,243 sq. ft.

Whether you are interested in selling your home or buying a home in Rancho La Quinta Country Club, contact us anytime to assist you in meeting your real estate needs!

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Lifestream in La Quinta Sponsoring Food & Blood Drive

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:36:59 -0600

Desert dwellers! Come out and support this worthwhile event!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Lifestream is collecting canned goods and non-perishable food items at its La Quinta donor center through December 20th. Food donations will go to Hanson House, a Palm Springs facility that provides 16 guest rooms at no to low cost for families of critically ill patients at Desert Regional Medical Center and other Coachella Valley hospitals. While you are dropping off your canned goods be sure to donate blood which is needed year-round!

To learn more about this organization, please read my post from last year about LifeStream, the new blood bank that opened in La Quinta. The donor center is located at 79-215 Corporate Center Drive in La Quinta.

Contact LifeStream directly at (760) 777-8844 for more details or go to www.lstream.org.

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

La Quinta Market Report for Mountain View Country Club

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:45:08 -0600

Mountain View Country Club in La Quinta is a great community and there are some good values there - call us if you want to preview any of the available homes!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Below is the current market report for the homes in the golf course community of Mountain View Country Club:

Current Available Listings: 47

Least Expensive Home on the Market: $299,900 - 2 bdrm/2 bth, 2,013 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Home on the Market: $1,800,000 -4 bdrm/4.5 bth, 4,149 sq. ft.

Current Homes in Escrow/Under Contract: 10

Most Recent Sales (past 180 days): 23

Least Expensive Sold: $425,000 - 3 bdrm/3.5 bth, 2,535 sq. ft.

Most Expensive Sold: $1,450,000 - 4 bdrm/4.5 bth, 4,449 sq. ft.

Whether you are interested in selling your home or buying a home in Mountain View Country Club, contact us anytime to assist you in meeting your real estate needs!

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Be Cautious About Giving Info to Census Workers

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:41:22 -0600

An excellent reminder of the importance to protect your personal information!

Via Larry Bettag - Cherry Creek Mortgage:

With the U.S. Census process beginning, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises people to be cautious. The major concern is that individuals don't become a victim of fraud or identity theft.

The first phase of the 2010 U.S. Census is under way as workers have begun verifying the addresses of households across the country. Eventually, more than 140,000 U.S. Census workers will count every person in the United States and will gather information about every person living at each address including name, age, gender, race, and other relevant data.

The big question is - how do you tell the difference between a U.S. Census worker and a con artist? BBB offers the following advice:

** If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions. However, you should never invite anyone you don't know into your home.

** Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, cre dit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census. While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, the Census Bureau will not ask for Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers nor will employees solicit donations.

Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail, or in person at home. However, the Census Bureau will not contact you by Email, so be on the lookout for Email scams impersonating the Census.

Never click on a link or open any attachments in an Email that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.

For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit http://www.bbb.org/.
Larry Bettag - Regional Vice President, Midwest Region

Illinois FHA Specialist

630-417-7172

An Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee

Too Old to Play Kickball? Not in La Quinta!

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:40:23 -0600

Desert dwellers! Come join the fun in La Quinta!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

The City of La Quinta's Community Service Department is hosting a "Co-Ed Kickball League" beginning with registration on November 23rd from 8 am to 4:30 pm at 78495 Calle Tampico.

Do you still have what it takes to kick the ball? This is a 4 male & 4 female players league and the first 8 teams to register will play. The games will begin January 17th - May 2nd on Sundays between 4 pm and 6 pm at the La Quinta Sports Complex.

Lace up your sneakers and bring your friends and neighbors and kick the ball around!

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

10 Ways You Can Lift Your Spirits

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:48:04 -0600

Good ways to realize that today is a great day!

Via Mario Trejo Romero, CRS, CDPE (The Melcher Agency):

1. Realize you can't buy happiness: Wealth is like health. Its utter absence breeds misery, but having it doesn't guarantee happiness.

2. Manage your time: Happy people feel in control of their lives, often aided by mastering their use of time. Set goals and break them into manageable tasks.

3. Act happy: Going through the motions can trigger the emotions.

4. Flow: Happy people are often in a zone called "flow". They're absorbed in a challenging, but not overwhelming task.

5. Exercise: Sound minds reside in sound bodies.

6. Sleep: Happy people allow their bodies to rest.

7.Foster close relationships: Friends who care about you can help you weather difficult times. Don't take them for granted.

8. Be helpful: Doing good makes you feel good.

9. Be grateful: Pause to think about what you have rather than what you don't.

10. Nurture your spirit: Faith can provide a sense of purpose and hope. Studies find that actively religious people are happier and cope better with crises than non-religious people.

Source: David Myers, The Pursuit of Happiness

What is Mortgage APR, Can You Explain It?

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:44:07 -0600

Looking for a loan to buy a home? This is good information regarding the APR (Annual Percentage Rate).

Via Bill Ladewig Your FHA Guru - FHA and VA Loans Since 1970:

WHAT IS MORTGAGE APR, Can You Explain It?

APR Demystified and APR Predators Exposed

First, lets demystify Annual Percentage Rate (APR).

Mortgage APR was designed to allow consumers to use one standardized number to compare each lender's rate for the same type of loan while rate shopping. It is supposed to represent the borrower's cost and it works like this.

If I lend you, $10,000 and, I charge a $500 Bump-ta-Bump Fee, you will actually receive $9,500, however you must still repay me $10,000. Mortgage APR is my real yield and your real cost on this loan.

We agreed that you will repay the loan at 8% interest on $10,000, HOWEVER you only received $9,500 therefore I will earn more than the 8.0% interest rate I charge on $10,000. In this case, my yield (APR) is 9.799% on the $9,500 you received.

APR is the lender's yield on dollars actually lent ($10,000 minus $500 = $9,500); in this case, the lender's yield (APR) on $9,500 is 9.799%   (APR is computed as if the above example is a 30 year loan)

The $9,500 also represents the Amount Financed in the Truth In Lending (TIL) disclosure.

For those of you who use spreadsheets the Rate Function will find APR. Use the Amount Financed for Loan Amount and use the monthly payment on the actual loan amount.

Fees that must be subtracted from a mortgage loan to properly calculate Amount Financed for APR

Origination and Discount Points

Processing and Lender Fees

Pre-Paid Interest (Use 15 days when closing date is unknown)

Monthly Mortgage Insurance must be added to the payment of all FHA loans and Conventional loans greater than 80% loan to value.

The inclusion of Mi or MIP accounts for the large spread between Rate and APR on loans with mortgage insurance.

NOTES: Fees Not used in APR calculation; third party fees such as appraisal and credit. APR can only be compared on loans of the same type and amortization period

How Do APR Predators Work?

Many sophisticated borrowers shop interest rates by searching for lowest APR which, if property stated, is a valid way to compare similar loans. Unfortunately, APR is not always stated properly.

How is advertised Mortgage APR is misstated?

Prepaid Interest is not included - most common deception and true on all online Rate sites   i.e.: Bankrate.com, Interest.com, Mortgage101.com, ShopRate.com, etc.

Prepaid Interest is understated - must be 15 days when closing date is unknown.

MI or MIP is not included in the APR on any online rate sites, Bankrate etc.

Some lenders do not include MI or MIP on their web sites such as Amerisave.com

Lender fees are either understated or not included in the APR calculation. This is a tricky one because No or Low Lender Fees does not necessarily indicate a predatory lender. Some lenders charge a higher rate and no points or fees for their so called "Zero Cost" loan. However, the "Zero Cost" rate will always be higher than a rate with points and/or fees.

Notes to the above:

there is no such thing as a Zero Cost loan and some states prohibit lenders from advertising Zero Cost Loans.

The spread between Rate and APR on loans greater than 90% LTV should be at least 0.700%. When it is not... you are being scammed

Rate - Points - Fees are all interdependent

The best way I can explain this is show various Rate - Point - Fee combinations where the lender is making the same gross profit on each combination.

In the examples below, we will use a $200,000 loan amount and Lender gross profit of $1,000, on a day when the Lender's cost for a 5.000% rate is par (0 point).

Best Rate: $1,000 Lender profit in various combinations of points and fees

Rate

Fees

Points

APR

Profit

5.000%

$1,000

     0

5.044%

$1,000

5.000%

$500

0.250

5.044%

$1,000

5.000%

$0

0.500

5.044%

$1,000

Lowest Fees:
You pay $0 points and fees and Lender's investor pays the lender $1,000 for the higher rate.

Rate

Fees

Points

APR

Profit

5.125%

$0

    0

5.125%

$1,000

The point here is that lenders design their loans to provide talking points for their sales staff (loan officers). They all require a certain profit margin and it is not important the way the loan is structured as long as the closed loan delivers their required profit margin.

This illustration also points out the value of correctly stated APR as a way of comparing mortgage loans. For the sake of these illustrations, prepaid interest was not used. If 15 days PP was calculated it would have increased each APR by 0.019%.

Bill Ladewig

800.664.7283 (SAVE)

Bill@YourFhaGuru.com

Website

Bill Ladewig is a Mortgage Broker Licensed by the California Department of Real Estate 00968137

San Diego FHA and VA Home Loans Escondido Mortgages Escondido Localism San Diego FHA and VA Home Loans San Diego Localism San Diego UFMIP Escondido Mortgages Escondido Localism San Diego Mortgage What is APR

Palm Springs International Airport

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:29:02 -0600

Palm Springs International Airport - come visit us in the Coachella Valley!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Thinking of visiting La Quinta? Live too far away to drive here? The Palm Springs International Airport is serviced by ten airlines with approximately 100 daily flights. Every year our local airport welcomes visitors from over 500 cities around the world!

There are ten major airline hubs that provide non-stop service to Palm Springs including:

Bellingham, Washington (BLI)

Calgary, Alberta (YYC)

Dallas / Fort Worth, Texas (DFW)

Denver, Colorado (DEN)

Edmonton, Alberta (YEG)

Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS)

Los Angeles, California (LAX)

Minneapolis / St. Paul, Minnesota (MSP)

O'Hare / Chicago , Illinois (ORD)

Phoenix, Arizona (PHX)

Portland, Oregon (PDX)

Sacramento, California (SMF)

Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC)

San Francisco, California (SFO)

Seattle, Washington (SEA)

Vancouver, British Columbia (YVR)

Airlines servicing Palm Springs Airport include:

ALLEGIANT AIR

ALASKA

US AIRWAYS

AMERICAN

DELTA/DELTA CONNECTION

HORIZON AIR

NORTHWEST (SEASONAL)

SUN COUNTRY (SEASONAL)

UNITED/ UNITED EXPRESS

WESTJET (SEASONAL)

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Art and Architecture of beautiful Palm Desert

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:34:06 -0600

Interested in the signs that line our roads in Palm Desert and surrounding desert communitites? The post below provides you pictures and information about where to find these works of art!

Via Mary MacGregor (Windermere Real Estate):

Palm Desert is always in the vanguard artistically and architecturally here in the Coachella Valley. It was the first to commission signs—themed using giant slabs of flagstone—announcing various entry points of the city. The other cities quickly followed suite and the Valley is now replete with distinctive artwork demarcating each town's boundaries.

The city's homage to art is quickly apparent, with eye-catching sculpture adorning El Paseo and the major boulevards. Last week I highlighted some of the revolving artwork now gracing the sidewalks and meridians of the desert's Rodeo Drive.

The city recently unveiled its new Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, wonderfully ensconced on a huge lot at the corner of Hwy 111 and Monterey, across from the Westfield Shopping Center. The former empty lot has been artfully transformed into a destination showpiece encompassing the two city buildings and two high-end restaurants—Cuistot's and La Spiga.

Earthen berms covered in desert flora literally and figuratively shelter the city buildings from adjacent traffic, creating a veritable oasis of beauty and solitude within its protective embrace.

The Chamber of Commerce itself is itelf integrated into the earth, with blue agave and yellow-hued brittlebush and barrel cacti cascading down the "walls" of the edifice.

Strolling along the undulating paths punctuated by pots and palms, it's almost impossible to believe that Hwy 111 roars past a stone's throw away. Mosaic-infused walkways highlight the quiet spectacle of water and plants.

The xeriscape includes Memorial Gardens in honor of Eric Johnson, a local landscape architect renowned for his pioneering work in drought-tolerant landscapes who left his imprint on many of the city's most distinctive landmarks.

I was remiss in not visiting the gardens upon their debut last year but now make a concerted effort to occassionally stop and savor this unique gem. If you're here in the Palm Springs area, make a point of dropping by the friendly and informative Visitor Center and perhaps get some landscaping ideas from the surrounding grounds.

If you enjoyed reading this story, subscribe to my blog via email or news feed. That way you'll be alerted whenever I post a new article on the desert market or compelling home bargains.

Check out my website at DesertRealtoryMary

Wisconsin Bee Keeping and Waukesha County Real estate: Becoming a Creature of Habit.

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:05:17 -0600

La Quinta residents... the next time you see bees in your yard, remember that they bring us some delicious honey! Read this post from an associate in Wisconsin,...

Via Tom Braatz, Waukesha County Real Estate,WI (Re/Max Realty Center 262-377-1459):

We have a couple days of warm weather, and then we have some that are cold. The nights in Wisconsin are colder, and like anything else in life, cycles take place. I began to think about when I was a Wisconsin bee keeper not too long ago, how much I enjoyed it, and how it was very similar to Waukesha County Real Estate at times. If they have not done it by now a lot of Wisconsin Bee farmers will go out to their colonies , or have went out to their colonies, and after they clean the colonies, put a large sugar cake in the colony, and put a mite strip in there to protect to the colony, they will wrap the protection around the colony so the bees can get ready for Spring. The Queen will be checked to see how she is doing, the drones and workers as well. The hives with be checked for any pests or animals that may have tried to get at them, and in short, the colony will be secured until April when the colony will be opened for the bees to start their active plans. One can never understand the feeling that comes with bee keeping. Nature really took some time out and perfected the ritual. The sad thing is bees are vanishing at an alarming rate and when they are gone, there is a good chance the earth as we know it will be totally different.

Bees will go out up to seven miles and more to find flowers and flora to pollinate. In return there is nectar. I could get into the bad rap Honey bees get being put into the same categories as other bees, wasps, and hornets get classified into.That would be a whole post and it would be sad that by the time I got done you would realize how really important Honey bees play a part of life daily on earth. Further, man is doing his best to destroy them as well, and may not even know it. Awfully sad. A little trivia; the only food known to man that will never spoil, even in respect to age, is honey. Between cell phone signals, pesticides, magnetic polarities, and more factors, bees are diminishing in large numbers. Can you imagine a day when nothing, or very little is pollinated? I was a Wisconsin farmer and I can tell you that will be a sad day.

allows a person to see the organized skills paying off in their business, making sure the New Years goals are written, and ones game plan is exercised each day with consistency. Running my real estate business is really not that different from when I was a Bee keeper. The important thing that I always want to remain focused on is having an agenda. Soon I will be a part time farmer, and a bee keep again, and it will all be an adjustment; an adjustment that I will always welcome like the new business day that greets me everyday no matter where I am enjoying it. In the Waukesha County Real Estate market it's all productivity.

Wishing you a productive day, and see you at closing!

Tom Braatz

Looking at finding a Waukesha County real estate agent? Like to buy or sell some Investment or Commercial property in Waukesha County? Like to know what your Waukesha Real Estate or Waukesha County Real Estate , or what your homes for sale in Waukesha County are worth on-line? Get it on-line:  Market Analysis Want to find that right home? Dream Home Finder

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Support Our Troops on Veteran's Day AND throughout the Year

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:01:12 -0600

This post is a reminder of ways we can say THANK YOU to our troops for all they do in serving our country! Let's support them in every way possible and below are some ideas to start with....

Via Jim & Maria Hart ~ Charleston, SC Real Estate (AgentOwned Realty):

Veteran's Day is a day to loudly and proudly honor all of those who have bravely served our great country.

This year, while we're remembering all of those who have served in the past, let's also do something to support our current active military.

Don't have any ideas of what you could do? Well, here are just a few to get you started:

Send a letter or care package. There are several websites that you can check out to get you the right information for this. You can check out www.anysoldier.com, www.letterstosoldiers.org, and www.amillionthanks.org.

Donate blood for troops in combat. There are blood banks and blood drives all over the country on an given day. Your blood may stay within your community, or it could be the life-saving nectar for someone protecting your freedom. You can check out www.militaryblood.dod.mil for more info.

Offer up your unused frequent flyer miles at www.homemiles.org. This could not only get a soldier home for a little much needed R & R, but it could save us (taxpayers) a little dough, too.

Volunteer to foster a military personnel's pet through www.netpets.org/militarypet/foster.php. So many of their beloved pet end up in shelters because they are leaving the country and can't take them along. How awesome would it be for them if someone could take care of their pet while they're away, and then when they return, their pet is waiting for them! I'm certain that's one of the best welcome-home gifts -- especially if their animals are their family!

Donate sports equipment, games and more to the troops through www.give2thetroops.org. They do have some down-time, and while it isn't much, I'm sure it would be really nice to get a taste of home by being able to get a flag-football or basketball game going.

And don't forget to say THANK YOU to all past and active military this Veteran's Day (and after)!

*****************************************

We proudly serve and sell real estate in and around all of Charleston, SC. If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in Charleston, Johns Island, James Island, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island, North Charleston, Hanahan, Summerville, Goose Creek or other surrounding areas, and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact us at your earliest convenience.

Jim and Maria Hart
Realtors®/ AgentOwned Realty
(843) 364-9845
hart@agentowned.com

Copyright © 2009 by Jim and Maria Hart (AgentOwned Realty).

Tips for First-Time Homebuyers, Repeat Buyers and Sellers to Close Escrow by July 1, 2010 (The Extension and Expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit)

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:54:07 -0600

This is an informative post about the Homebuyer Tax Credit for both buyers and sellers. Read the post below from an associate in New Jersey...

Via Gina Chirico, Specializing in Essex County, Prudential New Jersey Properties (West Essex/Livingston Offices):

Originally posted in my How Many Buyers and Sellers have Benefited from the $8000 Tax Credit post, which was written in line with the 2009 First-time Homebuyer $8000 tax credit deadline of November 30, the following tips may help first-time homebuyers, repeat buyers (i.e., move up buyers or empty nesters) and sellers close escrow before July 1, 2010 and reap the benefits of the Extension and Expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit.

FOR BUYERS who want to benefit from the $8,000 federal tax credit, taking advantage of low prices and attractive interest rates, the following tips may help you close escrow before July 1, 2010:

You need to contact a REALTOR® today;

You need to have a solid pre-approval from a reputable bank;

You need proof of funds for cash deals;

Don't waste time with low ball offers, have your REALTOR® run the sold comparable properties, make an educated offer and definitely in a multiple offer situation...put your best offer on the table because you may not get a second chance;

Don't waste your time looking for houses out of your price range - you can only buy and a bank will only lend you money what you can afford to buy;

Get in and out of attorney review (not sure about other states but here in NJ, listings in attorney review are still active listings and offers can still be submitted thus bumping your offer right off the table) and/or request the seller agree to back-up offers only;

Even with the extension, most short sales, if not all short sales, will never close in time (by July 1, 2010);

You lose control on purchases where the sellers need to find suitable housing before they can sell (your purchase would then be contingent upon the seller first finding another house); and

You need to be under contract by the end of April 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2009.

FOR SELLERS who really want to sell their home, take advantage of today's affordability, and the expansion of the $6,500 tax credit, the following tips may help you close escrow before July 1, 2010:

Price your home at market value from the start (Do NOT overprice);

Work with a REALTOR® in your area who has an aggressive marketing plan;

Make your home irresistible (do everything you can to make the home so attractive, charming, cozy, inviting, comfortable and exciting so that a buyer would want that lifestyle too);

Be flexible with showings, lockbox and for sale sign (a home cannot sell if a buyer cannot get in to see it and even more importantly, it cannot be sold if nobody knows its for sale);

If you don't want to sell your house, don't put it on the market not only does it waste the time of buyers and their agents but it brings the property stats down as well);

If selling and buying, do not make an offer on the house you want to buy until your house is under contract, and if at all possible, after the home inspection and mortgage contingencies are satisfied on your sale (most sellers will not sign a contract with a home sale contigency...would you?); and

If selling and buying and if you qualify for the $6,500 tax credit, you need to be under contract no later than the end of April 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2009.

For more information on the First-Time Homebuyer $8000 Tax Credit Extension and the Expansion Credit of $6,500 to move-up buyers, please read my post First-Time Homebuyer Extended through April 30, 2010 and Expanded to Include Qualified Homeowners.

Even with the extension there is no reason for New Jersey buyers and sellers to still be waiting on the fence. It takes time to buy and sell your New Jersey home. Don't wait until the last minute...wouldn't you like to be in your new house before we spring forward?

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate

973-715-1158 (cell)

973-992-6363 ext 116 (office)

Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

http://GinaChiricoRealEstate.com

****With deep roots in the Essex County, I service buyers and sellers throughout many Essex County communities and neighboring Morris, Passaic and Union Counties, specializing in the entire West Essex Communities (including Fairfield, Caldwell, West Caldwell, North Caldwell, Roseland, Essex Fells, Verona and Cedar Grove) and my hometown areas of Belleville, Bloomfield and Nutley.****

When Opportunity Knocks...Make Sure Gina Chirico is There to Answer Your Door!

Golf Carts on La Quinta Streets

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:34:41 -0600

Like the golf cart lanes in Palm Desert? La Quinta is planning the same!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

This past Tuesday, the La Quinta City Council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance that will allow a pilot program for golf cart use on certain city streets. The pilot program may be implemented as soon as mid-January with the issuance of two-year permits. The cost of the permits is expected to be available at the Council's December 1st meeting.

Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage are two Coachella Valley cities that are currently using the program with great success. The program abides by state law that does not allow the use of the golf cart for more than two people and 16 year old drivers must have a valid driver's license. Seat belts and a rooftop are also required. The maximum speed of a golf cart cannot exceed is 15 MPH and the golf carts will be restricted to designated golf cart lanes on city streets, designated golf cart paths and select neighborhoods with streets that have 25 MPH speed limit postings. The main idea, explained in the council meeting, is to allow access throughout La Quinta Cove, to the Village and Old Town La Quinta areas, the SilverRock Resort and the La Quinta Resort and Club. After reviewing the success of the pilot program, City Council members have indicated that the program may go citywide.

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Barry Manilow's "Gift of Love" Charity Shows at the McCallum

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:33:34 -0600

The McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert is hosting these charity shows - Barry Manilow's "Gift of Love" in December - don't miss it!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Barry Manilow will be performing at the McCallum Theater December 4th -5th and December 7th - 9th with all the proceeds from the concerts going to 25 local charities.

As a resident of our Coachella Valley, Barry Manilow's impact and generosity toward his neighbors in the desert is legendary and we are proud to have him represent us! Tickets will range from $85 to $250 and a limited number of Premium Tickets from $750 to $1,000, which include a champagne reception and photo with Barry. Barry Manilow is scheduled to perform his hit songs and special holiday songs from his new Christmas album. As Barry Manilow fans, we will be there and hope to see you there also!

Below is a list of charities that will benefit from Barry's concerts at the McCallum:

ACT for MS - Palm Desert
Angel View Crippled Children's Foundation
Animal Samaritans
Barbara Sinatra Children's Center
Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS of the Desert)
Boys & Girls Club of the Coachella Valley
Desert AIDS Project
Desert Arc
Desert Samaritans for the Elderly
Desert Paws
FIND Food Bank, Inc.
Gilda's Club Desert Cities California
Guide Dogs of the Desert
Healthy Family Foundation: The Ophelia Project
Joslyn Senior Center
Mourning Star Center
Olive Crest
One Heartland
Pegasus Riding Academy for the Handicapped
Shelter From The Storm
Stroke Recovery Center
Temple Isaiah Fund
The Living Desert
United Cerebral Palsy - Inland Empire
Variety Club of the Desert

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

History Of Veterans Day - November 11th

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:34:50 -0600

A reminder that November 11th is Veterans Day and remember to visit the Healing Field Memorial in Cathedral City this week honoring those soldiers who have lost their lives for our country.

Via Gary Swanson (Broker, Realtor - Re/Max Ideal Brokers, Inc.):

History Of Veterans Day - November 11th

So have you wondered why Veterans day is always on November 11th with no accounting for what day of the week it falls on? Why not on Monday like most other holidays?

Here is a short History Of Veterans Day. Go back to 1918 when an armistice or cessation of fighting went into effect during World War I. The armistice began at 11:00 in the morning on November 11th, and I remember as a kid hearing the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month was "armistice day."

For years starting in 1938 Armistice day was the holiday until 1954 when it was changed to Veterans day and became a day to honor American Veterans of all wars. They also changed the date to Monday to allow for a longer holiday.

In 1977 President Jerry Ford signed into law that starting in 1978, by the will of the American people, that the date would revert back to the 11th of November.

This is, I believe, more fitting as a special day to honor our Veterans and should not fluctuate.

Remember all our Veterans at 11:00 on 11/11/2009.

Pick up the phone and let me welcome you home!

Cochran Air Show in Thermal

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 16:49:43 -0600

Air Show in Thermal - see vintage planes, skydivers and more!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

Today is the Jacqueline Cochran Air Show in Thermal. Aircraft, aviators and skydivers will be performing or displayed on the ground and in the air. The show will also include the Air Force F-16 Viper West Coast Demo Team and the U.S. Navy F-18 Demo Team, along with 21 members of the U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight program and the Golden Stars Skydiving Team.

As the daughter of an Air Force Officer, I have always loved watching the air shows when we lived at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio and now the same thrills can be experienced at our local air show! The cost is FREE and is at the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport at 56-850 Higgins Drive in Thermal from 9:45 AM to 3 PM today.

9:45 am

Opening Ceremonies

10:00 am

T-28 Formation Fly-bys

10:20 am

Martin Kennedy

10:35 am

Jon Melby & Rob Harrison

10:50 am

Model Aircraft Group

11:20 am

Doug Jardine

11:40 am

Red Bull Mig

11:55 am

Melissa Pemberton

12:30 pm

Bear Cat & Zero Performance

12:45 pm

Martin Kennedy

1:00 pm

Rob Harrison and the Zlin 50

1:15 pm

Jon Melby

1:35 pm

Golden Stars Skydiving Team & Melissa Pemberton

1:50 pm

Viper West F-16 Demostration Team & Heritage Flight

2:15 pm

Doug Jaradine

2:30 pm

C-17 Demonstration

3:00 pm

Fly-by's as Authorized

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Patriot Park "Healing Field Memorial" Ceremony

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 16:48:46 -0600

Important community event to honor the servicemen and women who have served our country. Hope you can join us there...

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

This Sunday, November 8th at 11 AM, there will be an opening ceremony for the Healing Field Memorial at the Patriot Park located at the northeast corner of Date Palm and Dinah Shore Drive. Five thousand six foot flags will be displayed and each honors a military serviceman or servicewoman killed during operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

For the past four years this event has commemorated the sacrifice our servicemen and women have experienced fighting for our country. Each flag will have the name, age, hometown and branch of service of each service member who has lost their life. Four of the flags will honor those soldiers from the Coachella Valley. The Healing Field will be on display until November 14th.

I have been unable to attend the Patriot Park ceremonies in the past, but recently was in the hills above Malibu by Pepperdine and can tell you that it is an incredibly moving display of the losses our country has sustained in the fight for freedom. Whatever your politics, this is an event that is worthy of your support.
To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Three Tips On Choosing Something Or Not

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:29:26 -0600

Life is made up of choices. For example, when looking to buy or sell your desert real estate we hope you will choose us! Enjoy the post below provided by Gary Woltal, a gifted writer & real estate agent.

Via Gary Woltal - Associate Broker REALTOR® Dallas Ft. Worth (Keller Williams Realty):

In the field of time management sometimes many of us feel like the Wizard of Oz character the Scarecrow and say to ourselves, "If I Only Had a Brain." Well we all have a brain and we need to use it with our selections in life. Here's

Three Tips On Choosing Something Or Not.

1) Values / Meaning - Look at what you are doing and ask yourself if it is "aligned" with what is important to you. For example I can't help but chuckle in the blogging world with those that spend countless HOURS blogging each day but complain there business has suffered for the year. Maybe less blogging??! Duh.

2) Substitution - this is such an elemental observation that completely eludes most people. You CAN'T do it all. If you pick up volunteering on Thursday afternoons and that is important to you, guess what? You can't also be doing money producing activities like showing clients houses that day. Remember as you add a new item to your choices you are typically subtracting something else. The art of carefully subtracting those things you don't want to do anymore is where your brain needs to be fully aware of something "LEAVING" your life. It is all good, if you are the one in control.

3) Finally, Evaluation. It is ok to be a different person today than you were a year ago. Last year was practicing Yoga. This year you are training for marathons. Last year you were part of a team at a big established, national name Realtor company. This year you are your own Broker at Susie's XYZ Realtor company and more your own boss. Evaluate constantly. Unsubscribe from those distribution email lists that you THOUGHT originally provided you with meaningful information but now just clog up your InBox.

You are in charge. Your life is made up of a series of choices. Keep making better ones as you go along. Whether high heels, running shoes, flats, or 'Texas' boots, make your way through life in your style. And ENJOY the ride.

Winterizing Your Home

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 07:09:31 -0600

Good tips for reducing your energy costs wherever you live! Read below....

Via Lennar Corporation (Lennar Corporation):

If you live in a climate where freezing temperatures occur, you will need to perform certain maintenance tasks in order to keep your home in top operating condition.

Here are some tips on how to prepare your home for winter conditions - and avoid some of the common mistakes made:

Sump Pumps

If you have a sump pump, we recommend installing a battery back-up sump pump, especially if your basement is finished. The battery back-up pumps beep when they are in use, alerting you that there is a problem with your pump.

To prevent freeze ups or damage to your sump pump, remove exterior discharge hoses.

Hoses and Hose Bibs

Before the first frost you will want to follow these simple steps to ensure that your hose bibs do not freeze and consequently leak. Please keep in mind that hose bib leaks due to improper winterization are not covered by your warranty.

Remove hoses from the garage and exterior hose bibs to prevent water pipes from freezing within the wall.

Wrap the pipes and the pressure reducing valve at your main water shut off to provide additional protection against freezing.

Shut off the main water supply to the hose bibs.

On the exterior open the hose bib and drain the water from the line.

Push upward on the anti-siphon ring to ensure that all of the water is drained from the line.

On the interior open the bleeder valve at the shut off. (Make sure you have something to catch the water in.) Be sure this valve is tightened again after the water is drained.

Make sure that the black washer is in the cap.

Push upward on the anti-siphon ring to ensure that all of the water is drained from the line.

Gutters and Downspouts

Clean gutters and downspouts frequently throughout fall to prevent build up of leaves and other debris. Neglected gutters can lead to wood rot problems, pest infestations, wet basements, foundation damage and many other expensive complications.

Be sure water is not coming down behind gutters and that all support brackets are securely in place.

Check to ensure water drains properly and doesn't pool, which can cause damage to foundations, driveways, and walkways.

Windows and Doors

Inspect and repair any loose or damaged window or door frames.

Install weather stripping or caulking around windows and doors to prevent drafts and lower heating bills.

Clean and lubricate garage door hinges, rollers, and tracks and be sure screws are tight.

HVAC Systems

It is generally recommended that you hire an HVAC company to regularly maintain your HVAC system.

Change your furnace filters on a regular basis.

Consider having a heating professional check your heating system to ensure optimal performance and discover minor problems before they turn into costly major repairs.

Adjust the dampers if necessary. A little heat to the unused rooms of your home should be left on during the cold winter.

Clean your ducts to better your heating system's efficiency as well as to reduce household dust and to provide relief to those with respiratory problems. Also check for air leakage especially around joints.

Clean your thermostat's heat sensor, contact points, and contacts. Check accuracy and replace if necessary.

Lubricate hot water heater's pump and motor. Bleed air from radiators or convectors.

If leaving on vacation, do not turn the thermostat below 65. This practice will help protect your pipes in the wintertime.

Keep your outside condenser unit clear to prevent freezing.

Ventilation

Be sure attic insulation doesn't cover ventilation vents in the eaves to prevent winter ice dams on the roof.

Be sure ridge vents and vents at eaves are free of plants and debris.

Check bird and rodent screens for attic vents to prevent any unwanted guests.

If your home has foundation vents, they should remain open at all times except in the event of extreme cold.

Landscape and Yard Work

Although grass appears to stop growing in the fall, the roots are actually growing deeper to prepare for winter. Now is the best time to fertilize and reseed your lawn.

Prune your trees and shrubs after the leaves turn to encourage healthy growth in the spring.

Trim any tree limbs that are dangerously close to power lines or the roof of your house. Heavy snow and ice can cause damage in the winter.

Deicing Tips

Do not use rock salt on concrete surfaces. The use of salt can lead to concrete deterioration, which is not covered by your warranty.

Do not use kitty litter on concrete driveways. The use of this product will have an adverse reaction to the concrete. Please consult your local hardware store for a deicing agent that they recommend.

If you wash your car to remove salt or deicing compounds placed on local streets, please remember that it is equally important to hose down your driveway afterwards to remove any harmful compounds.

General Tips

During extremely cold weather, you may consider leaving indoor faucets located on exterior walls dripping.

Place the emergency numbers for the electrician, plumber, and heating contractor in a convenient location. When the holidays arrive, some of these contractors will be open for emergencies only.

Remember to open the damper on the fireplace when using it. As you leave the room, be sure to close the glass doors on the fireplace to keep any sparks created by the fire in the firebox.

Remember always to keep drain covers open at your areaways (also called welled exits or walk ups).

If you are going to be away longer than a week, turn your water heater to the "Vacation" setting.

Be sure to check out Lennar on these social media sites:

Lennar's Family of Blogs:
The Open Door by Lennar
Lennar Communities
Lennar Cares

Seven Ways to Use a Home Inspection Report

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:28:09 -0600

Below is a list of the important reasons for both buyers and sellers to obtain a home inspection report and how to use it in the transaction...

Via Jim Bushart (Home Inspection Services of Missouri):

In random order, I present to you seven different ways in which a home inspection report can be used by parties to a real estate transaction for advantage and benefit.

1. Buyers can consider the reported conditions of the home's systems to determine their ability to afford to maintain the property. A home with a 12 year old water heater, an 18 year old furnace and a 25 year old composite shingled roof is going to need some costly investments in the near future.

2. Buyers can sometimes use information regarding undisclosed defects to negotiate the seller's action to repair the defect(s) or adjust the asking price for the home.

3. Sellers can obtain a home inspection and use the report to disclose known defects to potential buyers.

4. Sellers can obtain a home inspection and use the report to identify and correct significant defects that could interfere with a buyer's desire to submit a contract to buy the property.

5. Buyers can use the inspection report as a "punch list" or "to do list" for maintaining the property after purchase.

6. Buyers/Sellers can use the report to communicate to contractors the nature of the defect(s) to obtain estimates for repair or to arrange for repairs or replacements.

7. Buyers can sometimes use the inspection report as a means to withdraw from the contracted agreement to purchase the home when certain types of undisclosed defects are reported.

Buyers and sellers should consider obtaining inspection reports only from professional full-time home inspectors. Inspection reports generated by builders or contractors are often used by them as marketing tools and a means to generate business for maintenance and repairs and do not always represent the actual conditions of the property.

James H. Bushart, CMI

www.missourihomeinspection.com

314-803-2167

Blues & Brews in La Quinta on November 21st

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:07:18 -0600

Beer & music lovers join us at the annual Blues & Brews in La Quinta at the Civic Center Park on Saturday, November 21st!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

La Quinta Arts Foundation is bringing Blues & Brews to the La Quinta Civic Center Campus on Saturday, November 21, 2009, from 11 am to 6 pm. This community event is promoting the Blues and the roots of American music! Southern California's Blues Legends will entertain you all day!

Your admission includes four, 4oz. beer samples!   You must be 21 years or older and there is a Designated Driver Program: La Quinta Blues & Brews promotes Responsible Drinking! Nominate a Designated Driver who can sip O'Douls and water for free!

Beer Lovers imagine 30 cold frosty brews for your tasting pleasure! Discover the unique qualities of the various beer styles and how they compliment and enhance food. Learn more about beer styles and brands available at the event!

BEERS AVAILABLE AT LA QUINTA BREWS AND BLUES

ALE is the oldest kind of beer. Study the different styles from pale ale to porter. Ale is produced with bottom fermenting Yeast, and is brewed with at a higher temperature. This produces more complex and flavorful beers. Craft Ales: Redhook Ale, Fat Tire, Firestone Double Barrel Ale, Humbolt Hemp Ale, Stone Pale Ale, Arrogant Bastard Ale

EUROPEAN LAGERS are similar to American lagers, except most, if not all European lagers are brewed using only water, yeast, hops, and barley, with no adjuncts. Unlike most American lagers, that use rice or corn adjuncts to produce a cleaner finish. European Lagers: Stella Artois, Beck's, Beck's Oktoberfest

EUROPEAN ALES are brewed in the same style as American ales, and are served at a warmer temperature, and contain a rich aroma and flavor. European Ales: Leffe

STOUTS AND PORTERS are very similar with dark color and deep malt. Porters may display more pronounced hops. Porter: Kona Pipeline Porter

WEIZEN is an unfiltered German style wheat beer, also known as Hefeweizen. Similar to Wit beer, with more pronounced citrus and spice flavors. Wit is a spiced Belgian style unfiltered wheat beer. Orange and coriander are popular. Hefeweizen and Belgium style Wit beers: Widmer Hefeweizen, Shock Top, B.L. Wheat, Hoegaarden

LAGER BEER is produced with a bottom fermenting yeast. It is fermented at lower temperatures than ales. Lager beers are aged longer than ales, and the result is simple, clean beer. Craft Lagers: Anchor Steam Beer, Kona Long Board Lager, Stone Mill Organic lager

AMERICAN FRUIT BEERS have been infused with fruit, and lime, and in the case of Chelada, lime, Clamato, and spices, to enhance flavor. Fruit infused: Bud Light Lime, Ultra Lime Cactus, Landshark, Chelada

La Quinta Civic Center is located off Washington at Calle Tampico - For more information about this event visit the La Quinta Arts Foundation website at www.LQAF.com.

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com.  Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Desert Arthritis Walk Scheduled for Saturday, November 7th

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:05:41 -0600

This Saturday walk for the Arthritis Foundation fundraising event in Palm Desert.

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

A 3K walk is scheduled for Saturday, November 7th at 9:00 AM. This fundraising event will benefit the Arthritis Foundation's Programs, Research & Kids Camp

There will be food, fun, entertainment, prizes, and wonderful Wellness Village and a beautiful day to walk with our community. The walk is the Arthritis Foundation's annual nationwide event that raises awareness and funds to fight arthritis, the nation's most common cause of disability. It is a tremendous opportunity to help improve the lives of the 46 million men, women and children doctor-diagnosed with arthritis.

Get your company involved or recruit friends and family members to form a team. Best of all, walk in honor of a loved one with arthritis and know you're making a difference by raising funds to support Arthritis Foundation research, public health and public policy efforts to improve the lives of people with arthritis.

Location:Palm Desert Civic Center Park
73-600 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, Ca 92260

Contact Cortney Weir at (760)-773-3076 or go to the website:www.DesertArthritisWalk.com for more information.

For information about La Quinta real estate for sale or lease, view our website at www.LQ-Homes.com or call us at 1-760-567-9100.

To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

La Quinta Museum Exhibits for November 2009

Laxson Associates l Desert Communities — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:04:16 -0600

Visit the La Quinta Museum when you are in town!

Via Laxson Associates l La Quinta Real Estate:

The La Quinta Museum is offering special events from November 6th - December 12, 2009 - Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 AM to 4 PM. These special events are part of the "On Earth to Stay" exhibits which include collections and creations by David Salk, a native of Palm Springs, who has preserved and replicated the basket weaving expertise of Native American women from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Also on display for the special events will be photographs and writings of George Wharton James. James wrote more than forty books and pamphlets on California and the American Southwest.

Below is a list of the special events at the La Quinta Museum, located at 77-885 Avenida Montezuma in La Quinta. For more information or reservations call the Museum at 760-777-7170.

06 November - Opening Reception 5 pm to 7 pm
Southern California Bird Singers perform traditional songs of the Desert Cahuilla people. Meet Artist David Salk and Coachella Valley resident Dennis Wharton James, descendant of George Wharton James.

07 November - 10 am to 12 noon Lecture and Native
American Basketry Demonstration by Alice Kotzen, noted artist and author. Limited to 30, reservations required to 777-7170.

12 November - 5 pm to 6 pm"Mukat's People:The Story
of the Cahuilla" by Ginger Ridgway, Curator/Director of Programs, Aqua Caliente Cultural Museum.

19 November - 5 pm to 6 pm "Literary Bounty in an Arid
Land: the weave of Coachella Valley geography, Cahuilla culture, and desert art in the writings of George Wharton James." Lecture/discussion by Ruth M. Nolan, M.A. Associate Professor of English, College of the Desert and editor of the California desert literary anthology "No Place for a Puritan" the literature of California's deserts, " forthcoming from Heyday Books (fall, 2009.)

03 December - 10:30 am to 12 noon "A Taste of the
Desert" by Tracy Albrecht, Interpretive Specialist, Sant Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.

If you are interested in buying, selling or renting a home in La Quinta, California - contact Laxson Associates at 760-567-9100 or view or website at www.LQ-Homes.com.
To view La Quinta developments, custom estates & golf course communities visit our comprehensive website at www.LQ-Homes.com. Contact us at 1-760-567-9100, we are here to help you find the desert home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar!

Copyright © 2009 Susan Laxson. All Rights Reserved. Information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Rate	Fees	Points	APR	Profit
5.000%	$1,000	0	5.044%	$1,000
5.000%	$500	0.250	5.044%	$1,000
5.000%	$0	0.500	5.044%	$1,000

9:45 am	Opening Ceremonies
10:00 am	T-28 Formation Fly-bys
10:20 am	Martin Kennedy
10:35 am	Jon Melby & Rob Harrison
10:50 am	Model Aircraft Group
11:20 am	Doug Jardine
11:40 am	Red Bull Mig
11:55 am	Melissa Pemberton
12:30 pm	Bear Cat & Zero Performance
12:45 pm	Martin Kennedy
1:00 pm	Rob Harrison and the Zlin 50
1:15 pm	Jon Melby
1:35 pm	Golden Stars Skydiving Team & Melissa Pemberton
1:50 pm	Viper West F-16 Demostration Team & Heritage Flight
2:15 pm	Doug Jaradine
2:30 pm	C-17 Demonstration
3:00 pm	Fly-by's as Authorized